SmartBox review: a Richmond, Virginia-based portable storage company with compact containers, often booked through national van line partners.
SmartBox has been in the portable storage business since 2002 and offers local and long-distance moves and storage. Many customers reach SmartBox through moving partners such as Allied Van Lines. Here’s what to know and how it compares with PODS.
Compare a PODS QuoteAt a Glance
| Founded | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Richmond, Virginia |
| Containers | Compact, stackable containers; you use as many as you need |
| Services | Local and long-distance moves, storage, corporate moves |
| How people book | Directly or through moving partners such as Allied Van Lines |
| Best for | Small to mid-size moves where SmartBox serves your area |
Our Verdict
SmartBox is a reasonable option for smaller moves, especially if you’re booking a container move through a partner van line. Its compact containers work like U-Box: you use as many as you need. Customer reviews are mixed, with common complaints about scheduling and container size for larger homes. For most people, PODS offers more sizes and wider availability, so compare quotes before you commit.
- Compact containers that fit tight spaces
- Local and long-distance service
- Available through national moving partners
- Containers can feel small for larger homes
- Mixed reviews on scheduling and communication
- Limited service area
How Many SmartBoxes Do You Need?
SmartBox containers are compact, similar to U-Haul’s U-Box, so plan on about one per room or so. A one-bedroom apartment usually needs two or more, and larger homes need several. If you’re moving a two-bedroom home or bigger, a single 16-foot PODS container is often simpler.
How It Compares With the Big Names
| Company | Sizes | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| PODS | 8′, 12′, 16′ | Most moves and flexible storage, wide availability |
| U-Haul U-Box | One small box | Small moves and budget storage |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | 8′, 12′, 16′ | All-steel containers in major metros |
| U-Pack | ReloCube or trailer space | Long-distance value |
See every option in our best portable storage container companies guide and PODS vs. PACK-RAT vs. U-Pack.
FAQs
Is SmartBox still in business?
Yes. SmartBox is a portable storage company based in Richmond, Virginia, offering local and long-distance moving and storage.
Is SmartBox affiliated with Allied Van Lines?
Allied Van Lines has offered SmartBox containers to some customers as a container-move option, and many people book SmartBox through moving partners like Allied.
Is SmartBox or PODS better?
PODS offers three container sizes, wider availability and more storage options. SmartBox can work well for smaller moves in its service area. Compare quotes from both.